Monday, 12 September 2011

SIPTU Stand Up for Derry to Coleraine Rail Line

Ireland’s largest Trade Union SIPTU has added its voice to
the many who are calling for necessary and immediate investment in the Derry to
Coleraine rail line. The very future of the line was put in doubt recently when
Translink announced that because of cuts to its budget from the Department of
Regional Development, the £75m required to upgrade the line was not available
and the work would have to be deferred for three years. They are also
downgrading from 9 to 5 services per day.

SIPTU who represent NI Rail workers have said that failure
to provide the needed investment for upgrade now, would not only be highly
dangerous but also put the long future of the rail line between Derry and
Coleraine in doubt.

SIPTU Lead Organiser Martin O’Rourke said,

“The short sighted decision to not provide the needed funds
for upgrading the Derry to Coleraine line will not only adversely affect the
working people who rely on the service daily, but will also be highly dangerous,
and could put the long term future of the line at risk. NI Rail workers are
striving to provide a first class service to the public, yet the quality of
service they can provide is constantly being hampered by underinvestment.”

“This line is also strategically important for the tourism
industry and a reduction in the number of daily services will make the
beautiful north west coast less accessible to everyone. The historic lack of
investment in the north west needs to be put right.”